1,000 Books Before Kindergarten–An Early Literacy Book Club

This program is based upon evidence that the more children (ages 0-5) hear books read to them, the more prepared they will be to learn and enjoy reading upon reaching Kindergarten. Download our informational brochure or pick up a copy the next time you stop by the Children’s Desk.

How to get started:

2. Start logging your books on your ‘KinderGarden Reading Log’ by writing the titles of the books; one book per line.

3. Bring in your logs at each reading milestone for a progress sticker.

4. There is no specific end date, SO don’t feel rushed to read all 1,000 books, just enjoy the experience of raising a new crop of readers!

5. After reading 1,000 books, you’ve earned yourself a certificate and an invitation to a Mother Goose Graduation Party.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do we have to read books from the Library? Nope. you can read books from anywhere; your home, other libraries, preschool or grandma’s house.

2. What should I read? You can read any type of book! If you need help though, stop by the Children’s Room. We have lists of age appropriate reads and can point you in the right direction.

3. Can I count my child’s favorite book more than once? Yes. Write down the title (or an abbreviation if it is lengthy) each and every time you read it.

4. Can I count the books that I read from Story Time? Of course. Ask one of the librarians for the list of books we read at Story Time for your log.

5. My child “reads” books to himself. Should I count those? While it’s a great start, and we love to see them at the early stages of reading, if they are only mimicking or pretending to read, you shouldn’t count that book. (But pat yourself on the back for influencing an enthusiastic early reader).

6. My child has an electronic/computer game that reads stories to him. Do those count? As long as your child sits through the entire story, you can log it. It doesn’t count if they are only playing games.

7. How long do I have to read 1,000 books? The program has no official end date. You have as long as you need to read. So, don’t rush, take your time and enjoy the lasting memories you are making with your child.